The EU DNA project aims to reinforce civic education on democracy, the rule of law, and respect for human rights, including the rights of persons belonging to minorities, through an interdisciplinary and experiential approach. By integrating teacher training, student engagement, transnational cooperation, digital learning, and policy outreach, the project creates a far-reaching impact beyond the classroom. It provides students with both a theoretical foundation and practical tools to actively participate in democratic life, preparing them to become engaged and responsible citizens. Tailored to the educational contexts of Italy, Portugal, North Macedonia, and Lithuania, the project addresses country  specific challenges while ensuring a European perspective on governance and civic values. The core component is an interdisciplinary civic education curriculum, aligned with national education systems but adaptable to diverse teaching environments. The methodology includes debates, simulations, and role-playing exercises that enhance students’understanding of democratic decision-making processes and strengthen their critical thinking, problem-solving, andpublic speaking skills.

A key element is the train-the-trainer model for teachers, ensuring a sustainable impact. The project fosters transnational collaboration through co-teaching initiatives, student exchanges, and joint activities, promoting intercultural dialogue and shared democratic values.

Led by Universidad Nova de Lisboa, the initiative involves five secondary schools: Šiauliai Lieporiai gymnasium (Lithuania), Liceo Eugenio Montale and Liceo Michelangelo (Italy), Agrupamento de Escolas de Barcelos (Portugal), and Gimnazija Goce Delcev Kumanovo (North Macedonia). The EduCivica digital platform ensures continuity by providing educational resources, online collaboration spaces, and interactive learning tools.